Arthur “Art” Lamar Caples Sr., 81, passed Saturday, October 1, 2016, from advanced late stage Alzheimer’s, he also suffered from complications of diabetes. Art was born on March 17, 1935, in Jasper, Texas, to Lalor Matlock Caples, and Horace Caples; he was a lifelong resident of Southeast Texas.
Art, known as Caveman Caples at French High School, was designated All-City Best Guard; French won District Football Championship during the 1952 season.
Art was a veteran who served in the United States Army as an HVAC/Refrigeration Instructor. Art also served in the Army Security Agency supporting a joint CIA Cold War project called Operation Gold (Berlin Tunnel). Art met his sweetheart and wife of 59 years, Gudrun, in Berlin while on mission there.
Upon returning to Texas he worked in various occupations before returning to the HVAC/Refrigeration industry to serve as a Mechanic and Installer. He started his own business and later worked at Natkin Service Company where he also served as union steward. He retired from AAA Service Company.
Art enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and visiting with everyone. He was a founder of the Annual Servicemen’s Fishing Trip (Tournament) where the first was held in 1965 at Mill Creek Park, Lake Sam Rayburn. He enjoyed fish fry’s and barbeques, smoking (chewing) El Producto cigars and drinking beer with friends and neighbors (his extended family). His favorite singer was Jimmie Rodgers (country circa 1920’s and 1930’s). Art liked to visit or travel with his family and lifelong friends and saw much of the United States, and Western Europe. Most of all he loved Southeast Texas its trees, the Big Thicket, Neches River, bayous, lakes and observing its wildlife.
Art is survived by his wife, Gudrun Schulze Caples; children, Arthur “Art” Lamar Caples Jr., and Ingrid Gail Caples; grandchild, Zackery Lee Caples; an aunt, Lorene Forner; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Harold, and Bobby: grandsons Kasey Don, and Troy Jerome; and daughter in-law, Janice R. Caples; and numerous family members, and dear friends.
A gathering of Mr. Caples’ family and friends will begin at 12:00 p.m. with his funeral service to follow at 1:30 p.m., Thursday, October 6, 2016, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His interment and graveside service with honors will follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Beaumont; all are welcome to attend.
Art lived a life well lived, Desiderata style; he will be missed.
Memorial contributions may be made to Harbor Foundation (Harbor Hospice House), Post Office Box 21463, Beaumont, Texas 77720 www.HarborFoundation.com.
